Official Language:
English
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Currency:
CAD
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Population:
Approximately 7,615 people call Banff home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Banff: July is the warmest, with average high temperatures of 72°F/22°C. January is the coldest month with average lows of 5°F/-15°C. The weather is variable due to the high elevation and rugged topography, though the mercury can drop into the minus thirties. The relative dryness of the air in Banff, however, makes even extreme temperatures more bearable.
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Banff is located in the center of Banff National Park, located in Alberta's Rocky Mountains. Banff is located only 1.5 hours from Calgary and just a short trip from the mountain areas of Lake Louise, Kananaskis Country and Canmore.
In 1883, the transcontinental railway reached the Rocky Mountains. Three of the railway workers took a chance upon the simmering hot springs. At the time the area was protected by the government and two years later it became Canada's first national park, Rocky Mountain Park. At 4540 feet above sea level, Banff is "Canada's Highest Town". Train whistles in the distance remind visitors of the area's railway roots. Shops and cafes line the streets. Banff is now considered to be a year-round attraction. Visitors from all over the world come to experience Banff , whether it's in the restaurants, shops and cultural activities, or the adventures within the wilderness. Banff's busy main street has a very international flavor, with the sounds of every language including German, Japanese, French and Spanish. Those looking for a quiet walk can stroll the banks of the Bow River. Banff National Park is a playground year-round set in the Canadian wilderness. This is a four season recreational area that is home to 7,558 acres of downhill skiing/snowboarding terrain and hundreds of miles of mountain trails. This beautiful landscape can be discovered by bus or car, canoe/raft, on foot or skis.
Banff National Park is known as a hiking wonderland. There are more than 1,000 miles of trails. Visitors will enjoy the opportunity to photograph some of the most spectacular scenery and wildlife on Earth. Banff is home to many geological and ecological features. In addition to the hot springs, the Castleguard Caves located in the remote northwest corner of the park are Canada's longest cave system. The park is also home to Alberta's southernmost herd of the endangered woodland caribou.
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Attractions |
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Banff Upper Hot Springs:
A historic spa and bath house. This is Banff's premier attraction and features an outdoor hot pool, & day spa.
Banff National Park:
The birthplace of Canada's national park system and part of the Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. Discover the wildlife and history amongst the backdrop of glaciers and towering mountains.
Icefields Parkway:
A spectacular route that travels past unforgettable scenery through both Banff and Jasper National Parks. Named for the icefields that spread through the Rockies. This is considered to be among the world's most scenic highways.
About Canada Gallery:
Located in the historic Whyte Building, a friendly commercial gallery that represents the diverse talents of many emerging and established Canadian artists and artisans. A wide selection of original paintings, sculptures, fine crafts and gifts are available to see and buy.
Aura Gallery of Contemporary Art:
Distinctive artworks and hand-crafts by local, regional and international artists. Antler and mammoth tusk carvings, birch bark bitings, porcelain and glass vessels.
Canada House:
Only a short drive from Calgary. This friendly and fresh gallery represents a large collection of current Canadian art. Here you will find paintings and sculpture from Canada's best landscape, by contemporary and Native artists.
Cascade Gardens:
One of western Canada's finest historic landscapes. Visitors will enjoy the gazebos, waterworks, pools and flower gardens.
Sulphur Mountain Gondola:
Scenic ride that takes visitors up to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Views of Banff National Park are breathtaking.
Banff Park Museum:
This museum is home to stuffed wildlife that was once hunted in Banff National Park.
Cave and Basin Hot Springs:
Discovered in the 1880's, these sulphur springs have been enjoyed by bathers for more than 100 years.
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More Information |
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Useful Links About Banff:
Banff Travel Information
http://www.banfflakelouise.com/
http://www.banff.com/
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